Chardon-Hey | Wine Tour in Mornington Peninsula (Private Tour)

Planning a day out in the Mornington Peninsula and eager to taste some of Australia’s finest wines without the hefty price tag? The Chardon-Hey Private Wine Tour offers a fantastic way to do just that—combining comfort, expert guidance, and authentic experiences all packed into a memorable 7-hour adventure. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or on a solo trip, this tour promises a laid-back yet informative journey through some of the region’s top vineyards.

What we love about this tour are three main things: the personalized private experience, the variety of carefully selected wineries, and the chance to indulge in local spirits and delicious food. Plus, the fully licensed guide makes the day smooth and engaging. The only potential consideration is that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget for that separately. This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts, food lovers, or anyone seeking a relaxed day exploring Victoria’s wine country without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Personalized Private Tour: Exclusively yours, with a knowledgeable guide.
• Diverse Wine Tastings: 12-16 tastings across two boutique wineries.
• Authentic Local Spirits: Visit a distillery for unique rum tasting.
• Scenic and Relaxed: Enjoy stunning vineyard views and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Food & Beverage Flexibility: Lunch at your own expense, with options nearby.
• Convenient Transportation: Private, air-conditioned vehicle included.

An In-Depth Look at the Mornington Peninsula Wine Tour

The Convenience of a Private, Guided Experience

Starting from Melbourne’s CBD at St Paul’s Cathedral, the tour offers the comfort of private transport, making the trip to the Mornington Peninsula smooth and hassle-free. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is a real plus on warm days, and the entire day is designed for ease—no worries about navigating between wineries or organizing transport.

With a guide who’s fully licensed and CPVV accredited, you can comfortably ask questions, learn about local wine-making practices, and enjoy a conversational experience rather than a rushed group tour. This personal touch is a common highlight, with reviewers like “Kudos to their excellent service and ambiance” echoing the high standard of guidance.

First Stop: Kerri Greens Winery – Embracing Sustainability

The journey begins at Kerri Greens Wines, a vineyard that champions organic and sustainable practices. The winemaker-viticulturist duo manages three vineyard sites with an ethos of minimal intervention—adding as little as possible and letting the vineyard’s natural biology shine through.

Expect a relaxed tasting experience on lawned areas with panoramic vineyard views. This winery’s approach emphasizes natural fermentation, with wild yeast and minimal fining or filtration—meaning you’re tasting wines very true to their origin. Guests often comment on the peaceful setting, with one reviewer noting the “bring your own picnics” vibe, making it perfect for a casual, scenic start to your day.

Second Stop: Fenian Wines – Showcasing Local Grape Varieties

Next up is Fenian Wines, renowned for their Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Chardonnay, grapes that thrive on the Mornington Peninsula. The winery’s craftsmanship is evident in their gentle, handcrafted processes, avoiding mechanization to preserve the flavors and character of each variety.

Expect a focus on full expression of the fruit, with tasting notes likely highlighting the freshness and elegance typical of Mornington Peninsula wines. Visitors often remark on how “getting the ideal fruit and ensuring the winemaking process is expressive” really shows in the wines.

A Delicious Break: Red Gum BBQ for Lunch

After two engaging vineyard visits, it’s time for a two-hour break at Red Gum BBQ. This spot is a local favorite, known for slow-smoked meats and Southern-style BBQ. While lunch is at your own expense, the menu features delicious, hearty options paired beautifully with craft beers from around Victoria.

Guests appreciate the relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere and the fact that the principles of care for animals and community shine through in their offerings. It’s the perfect chance to unwind, swap stories, and enjoy some authentic southern flavors.

The Distillery: Jimmy Rum’s – A Local Spirit Adventure

Next, the tour takes you to Jimmy Rum’s distillery in Dromana, where rum is crafted with a rebellious spirit. The guided tasting promises to challenge preconceptions about Australian rum, with distinctive, award-winning spirits available for tasting and purchase.

Visitors find the unpretentious, fun vibe of Jimmy Rum’s refreshing, with some reviewers describing it as a “great find.” The seasonal menu featuring local producers adds a culinary twist, making this stop a highlight for those curious about local distilling artistry.

Return and Reflection: Back to Melbourne

After a full day of wine, spirits, and scenic views, the tour wraps up back at St Paul’s Cathedral. The return journey allows for some reflection on the day’s highlights or last-minute questions, rounding out the experience with ease.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Value for Money: At around $257 per person, this tour includes 12-16 tastings at two wineries, a distillery visit, private transport, and a licensed guide. Given the cost of tastings alone at boutique wineries, this package offers significant value.

Authentic, Small-Group Experience: The private aspect ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere, unlike crowded tours. It’s a great choice for those who want to avoid the noise and rush of larger groups.

Diverse Experiences: From organic wineries and handcrafted wines to a lively distillery and a hearty BBQ, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of the region’s culinary and beverage scene.

Expert Guidance: The guide’s knowledge, friendly manner, and local insights elevate the experience. Reviewers have praised the guide’s ability to share details about the wines and region—adding an educational layer to the day.

Flexible and Convenient: With pick-up and drop-off included, along with private transportation, the logistics are handled for you, freeing you to focus on enjoying each stop.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is comprehensive, keep in mind lunch is not included—you’ll want to bring some cash or card for meals. The timing allows for ample tastings and sightseeing, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day out.

The minimum booking requirement isn’t specified, but the free cancellation policy offers reassurance—if your plans change, you can cancel 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to explore boutique wineries without the hassle of organizing transport. It also suits families or groups looking for a relaxed, all-inclusive day with diverse tasting options. If you’re curious about local spirits or enjoy good food and scenic views, this tour hits all those marks.

It’s also a good choice for visitors wanting a deep dive into the Mornington Peninsula’s wine scene at a reasonable price, especially since the guide’s insights and personalized service elevate the experience.

The Chardon-Hey Private Wine Tour offers a well-balanced, immersive day in Mornington Peninsula’s renowned wine country. With a focus on authenticity, comfort, and variety, it delivers excellent value for both wine novices and aficionados alike. The private guide, scenic vineyards, and unique spirit tastings make it a memorable experience, perfect for those looking to indulge in Victoria’s local produce without the stress of planning.

While lunch isn’t included, the flexible itinerary means you can choose a place that suits your tastes, making it an adaptable and enjoyable outing. If you’re after a personalized, authentic, and educational day with some of the best wines and spirits the region has to offer, this tour truly delivers.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes private transportation, a fully licensed guide, and wine tastings at two wineries, as well as a visit to a distillery. Bottled water is also provided.

How many wine tastings will I get?
You can expect between 12 and 16 tastings across two wineries, giving you a good variety of flavors and styles.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll need to plan for your own meal or snacks during the break at Red Gums BBQ.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at St Paul’s Cathedral in Melbourne CBD, with pick-up and drop-off included within the city.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 7 hours, including travel time, tastings, and breaks.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s ideal for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and tasting.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start time.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs about $257.24 per person, offering good value given the inclusions.

Are the wineries organic or sustainable?
Yes, Kerri Greens Winery practices organic and sustainable viticulture, emphasizing minimal intervention.

In sum, the Chardon-Hey Mornington Peninsula wine tour provides an excellent blend of scenic views, authentic tastings, and relaxed guidance—making it an ideal choice for those seeking a genuine taste of Australia’s renowned wine region.